1. Forms of Government

2. Government Activity
Pretend you are stranded on an island with a group of 1000 people.
What form of government would you create?

3. Monarchy King or Queen holds power.
Rule is hereditary- passes to son or daughter.
Monarch often gives land to nobles in exchange for their loyalty.

4. Aristocracy State ruled by nobles Rule is hereditary
and based on family ties, social rank, land ownership and wealth.
Nobles sometimes challenge a king’s power.

5. Oligarchy
State ruled by a small group of citizens
Rule is based on wealth or ability.

6. Tyrant A person who seizes power by force.
Promises reforms/benefits for supporters.
Sometimes become oppressive.

7. Direct Democracy Citizens directly vote on laws. Majority rules
Begins in Athens with reforms of Solon and Pericles.
Why? Citizens demand more rights.

8. Representative Democracy
People vote for leaders who make laws.
Legislature = law making body of govt.
Athens: The Assembly and Council of 500

9. Evaluating Governments
Divide into groups of four.
Identify the advantages and disadvantages of establishing each form of government.

10. Which form of Government is best? Why?